Promoting Fire Safety Through Partnership

The National City Fire Department's Business Self-Inspection Program allows eligible low-risk commercial businesses to complete an annual fire and life safety inspection using a self-inspection checklist. The program encourages business owners to identify and correct common fire hazards while helping maintain a safe environment for employees, customers, and the community.

By participating in this program, businesses play an active role in fire prevention while allowing Fire Prevention personnel to focus in-person inspections on higher-risk occupancies.

Who Participates?

The Business Self-Inspection Program is available to eligible low-risk commercial occupancies as determined by the National City Fire Department. Businesses that require annual fire inspections under the California Fire Code will continue to receive scheduled on-site inspections.

• English Version – Business Self-Inspection Form 

• Spanish Version – Business Self-Inspection Form 

• Tagalog Version – Business Self-Inspection Form 

How the Program Works

Participating businesses should:

1. Review the self-inspection checklist.
2. Inspect their business using the checklist provided.
3. Correct any identified fire and life safety deficiencies.
4. Complete and submit the self-inspection form by the requested deadline.

The Fire Prevention Division reviews all submitted forms and may conduct follow-up inspections when necessary to verify compliance or provide additional assistance.

Why It Matters

Routine fire safety inspections help identify potential hazards before they become emergencies. Maintaining safe exits, properly serviced fire extinguishers, functional fire protection systems, and good housekeeping practices helps protect employees, customers, and property.

The Business Self-Inspection Program is designed to make compliance easier while continuing to promote a safe and resilient business community.